B's forward Patrice Bergeron named Selke Trophy finalist

Recognized for a while now as one of the best defensive forwards in the game, Patrice Bergeron was singled out once again today as one of three finalists for the Frank J. Selke Trophy.

The award is given annually to "the forward who best excels in the defensive aspects of the game." Bergeron won the award for the first time last year.

The other finalists named today are Pavel Datsyuk of the Red Wings and Jonathan Toews of the Blackhawks.

Bergeron led all NHL players in faceoff percentage this year, winning 62.1 percent of his chances (549-of-884). In addition, he finished sixth in the NHL in plus/minus rating at +24. Serving as the B's primary forward on the penalty kill, he logged 153:37 on that unit, which finished fourth in the NHL.